South Carolina is set to host in-state rival Clemson as they conclude a season-opening homestand in a highly anticipated matchup on Tuesday night. Both teams come into the contest with momentum, each holding a perfect record of 2-0.
Ta’Niyah Latson and Joyce Edwards have emerged as standout players for the Gamecocks, each averaging 18.5 points per game. However, a pleasant surprise has been the exceptional play of guards Raven Johnson and Tessa Johnson. Raven, who struggled last season, appears revitalized this year, boasting averages of 11.0 points, 9.0 assists, 6.5 rebounds, and 3.0 steals with only three turnovers. She has also had a remarkable start from behind the arc, hitting four of seven attempts, a significant improvement from last year’s struggles.
Tessa Johnson has made great strides in her game as well, averaging 16.5 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game, with a shooting percentage of 45.5 from three-point territory. Her versatility as a scorer has allowed her to impact games in more ways this season, and she has expressed her enjoyment with the fast-paced style of play the team has adopted.
Regarding injuries, head coach Dawn Staley confirmed Monday that guard Maddy McDaniel will miss her second consecutive game due to injury, while Agot Makeer is expected to return after exiting the previous game early.
South Carolina has averaged an impressive 104 points in their first two games, but Staley indicated that they could benefit from increasing their three-point shooting volume. So far, the Gamecocks have netted 15 of their 33 attempts from long range (45.5%), though Staley had aimed for at least 10 made threes against Bowling Green, achieving only six.
On the recruiting front, South Carolina received exciting news with the commitment of five-star forward Kaeli Wynn from California, who will join the 2026 recruiting class alongside Kelsi Andrews. Both prospects are expected to officially sign during the NCAA Early Signing Period, which begins Wednesday and runs until November 19.
As for Clemson, under the leadership of second-year head coach Shawn Poppie, the Tigers are showing signs of progress with wins against USC Upstate and Mercer. However, both opponents were not highly regarded in their respective conferences, making it difficult to gauge Clemson’s capabilities fully. The Tigers are focusing on a fast-paced game plan with an emphasis on three-point shooting, with a significant improvement to 40% on over 22 attempts per game compared to their previous season.
Despite a lack of size with only one projected starter taller than 6-0, Clemson has been strong on the boards, outperforming opponents in rebounding thus far. Nonetheless, they have yet to face a significant challenge this season.
Historically, South Carolina has dominated this rivalry, winning 14 straight games against Clemson, with the last meeting resulting in a substantial 77-45 victory for the Gamecocks. With both teams eager to gain traction this season, the game promises to be thrilling.
The match is scheduled for 6:00 PM ET at Colonial Life Arena in Columbia, SC, and can be viewed live on ESPN2. This rivalry clash not only highlights potential growth for both teams but also sets the stage for an exciting college basketball season.